PoE 3.26 brings game pause and endgame overhaul

With a release date set for June 13, the 3.26 – Secrets of the Atlas update for Path of Exile marks the return of attention to the original ARPG by Grinding Gear Games, after almost a year of total focus on Path of Exile 2. The new season not only reintegrates the game into the community conversation, but also adds a feature that has divided opinions for years: the pause button.

Inspired by the system already implemented in PoE 2, the game will now automatically pause when opening any menu in full-screen mode or in cases of severe lag, something particularly relevant in hardcore mode, where any disconnection can mean permanent death. However, there are exceptions: areas with pinnacle bosses will be "no pause" zones, to preserve the integrity of the toughest challenges.

"The goal is to allow more control for the player without compromising the difficulty level of critical fights," said GGG in an official statement.

Another focus of the update is the changes to the Atlas system and the map device, which serves as the hub for accessing endgame areas. Now, it will be possible to use Orbs of Horizon to reroll Elder and Conqueror Guardians maps, changing both the zone and the corresponding boss. In addition, the map device gains a new inventory grid, making it easier to organize multiple maps for consecutive runs or quickly manipulate crafting items.

With the name "Secrets of the Atlas," it is expected that more news related to the final content of the game will be revealed during the official broadcast scheduled for June 5, at 1pm PT / 4pm ET / 9pm BST / 10pm CEST. The free version remains available on both Steam and its own launcher.

Despite the anticipation for PoE 2, whose full version is still in development, Path of Exile 1 remains one of the most complex and deep experiences in the ARPG genre — even with its well-known learning curve. The 3.26 update aims to reignite interest before the full transition to the new title.